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The Art of a Great Long Lasting Blow-Out



A beautiful long lasting blow out is what women want to have when they perform this service at home. Of course, an expert stylist can definitely put that "wow" factor in a blow out. Yet, there will be  times when going to the salon could be impossible. Learning how to blow out your hair at home (between visits) benefits you, the stylist and the salon. Simply because a great blow out shows a great hair color and great haircut.

As a multicultural colorist and stylist, I will share my tips on how to create a great blow out. Dominicans stylists, myself included, are known for pin straight blow outs. We practically give you an "up to one week all organic keratin blow out!” No Kidding!


Tools Needed:

In order to create this perfect blow out, it is important that you have the right tools. The 2 most important tools are patience and time. A great long lasting blow out depends on your patience and the proper time you spend on each section (about 3 minutes). A typical blow out takes anywhere from 30-45 minutes. No patience, No time = No Great Long Lasting Blow Out!

Tangible tools that you are going to need are: A blow dryer, brushes, clips, flat iron, and products.

A powerful and professional blow dryer is the most important tangible tool you can have. If your blow dryer and flat iron are not up to date with technology (ceramic, ionic, 1800w or above), replace them. Ask your stylist to recommend you the best buy for your money.

Brushes are also essential tools to create the perfect blow out. If your hair in fine and straight, a flat brush or paddle brush will work fine. However, if you want to curl under or have some body, a round brush will be better.

If your hair is thick and curly, a round boar bristle or ceramic/ionic brush is the best choice to create a straight, yet voluminous look. For straight hair use products that encourage sleekness and smoothness. For body/volume use leave-in products that promote volume, like mousse and root lifter.

Prep work

1. Determine the texture and condition of your hair. As well as the type of blow out you want to achieve (e.g.,Straight, Volume, Wavy, Glamorous). In this tutorial I will focus on how create a straight blow out on curly hair and how to add volume to fine/flat hair.

2. Use the right shampoo and conditioner for your type of hair. Consult with your stylist on the right products for your hair. Generally speaking, for frizzy, dry or curly hair choose a smoothing/hydrating shampoo and conditioner. For limp and fine hair use a volumizing shampoo and  a light rinse.

3. If your hair is prone to tangles, make sure you brush your hair before washing it. If your hair continues to tangle as you wash, detangle your hair with conditioner on it. Trust me, it's easier to comb tangled hair with conditioner than without it. If you prefer to detangle after you have finished washing your hair, use a leave-in detangler spray.


 Blow Out Techniques for Thick Curly Hair



Model Before my Blow Out
1. Divide the hair from ear to ear. Subdivide the front into 5-7 sections (i.e., depending on the amount of your hair).  Sections should fit the diameter of the brush as it will allow you better control and assure an even and quicker drying.

2. Divide the back from crown to nape. Then, subdivide each section into 4-6  as shown in picture. With each subsection create tiny buns to keep hair moist. Do not let your hair dry naturally. Keeping your hair moist will reduce major frizz. Trust me I know. I've had curly hair all my life and this is exactly how I do my own blow dry.


Now Let's Begin!

1. Start on the left or right side, which ever is easier. Why at the front, because it's the "wow" section and the most prone to get frizzy when naturally dry.

2. Wrap the hair just like you would an a roller. Once it is rolled, lift hair and direct heat  to the roots, be cautious not to burn your scalp. Then, bring hair/brush down and direct heat in the same direction the hair is rolled to prevent frizz. Fan the heat to distribute the air flow (lick on photo to watch how to video).
Release section and repeat step. Once section is dried (about 3 minutes), let it cool before releasing it from the brush. When you get to the center, blow dry forward to retain some body. When you are finished, set your blow dryer in cool and blast hair with cool air. Once you are finished, start the back.


Model After my Blow Out 
I know it's hard and challenging to do your own blow out, specially the back section. Don't give up. You're doing great! continue wrapping each section on your brush and directing heat as previously explained.

3. Now, your hair is ready for the finishing touches. Once you are done blow drying your hair, blast your hair all over with cool air. Your hair will be bouncy and perhaps voluminous. If you are interested in having pin straight hair, use your flat iron. Don't forget to set it no higher than 375 degrees and to use heat protection to prevent hair damage. Use serums, shine spray and hairspray sparingly as it may make your hair heavy.



Blow Out Techniques for Fine and Flat Hair

Follow Prep Work Steps. Hair can be rough dried up to 80%. Apply your volumizing product anti frizz now and divide the hair in sections. Wrap hair section around the brush and dry for a minute. Release and repeat process until hair is dried and smooth. When blowing out your front section, direct it forward. This will give you the most volume. Once you are finished, blast your hair will cool air to set the style. Finish with a bit of teasing on the crown for an extra oomph, shine serum and hairspray.






MY BAG of TIPS:
  • The trick is to blow dry your hair as if you were not intending to use the flat iron!
  • If you have bangs, blow dry it first!
  • Brush sizes depend on your hair length.
  • The longer your hair the bigger the brush!
  • For curl forming blow outs, the smaller the brush, the tighter the curl!
  • Curly hair needs tension to be straighten. Make sure you pull gently but firm when blowing out your sections!
  • Do not saturate your hair with too many products, as it may make your hair heavy and dull.
  • Clean hair is the beginning of a great blow out!


Your Friend and colorist,
Maria Arias


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